{"id":1310,"date":"2018-12-06T11:17:40","date_gmt":"2018-12-06T10:17:40","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.senses.se\/en\/review-mutant-year-zero-road-to-eden\/"},"modified":"2025-06-16T19:19:04","modified_gmt":"2025-06-16T17:19:04","slug":"review-mutant-year-zero-road-to-eden","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.senses.se\/en\/review-mutant-year-zero-road-to-eden\/","title":{"rendered":"Review: Mutant Year Zero \u2013 Road to Eden"},"content":{"rendered":"

My introduction to role-playing games<\/a> occurred when my friend Mats and I encountered two older acquaintances. We were around 10 years old at the time and proceeded to create our first Drakar och Demoner<\/a> character. While the initial iteration of the role-playing game Mutant<\/a> debuted in 1984, I believe I encountered it around ’89 with the release of its updated version. We dedicated countless hours to playing Mutant<\/em>. A particularly compelling aspect was its setting: a post-catastrophe future Sweden. This thematic element is a significant reason for my long-standing appreciation of the Fallout<\/strong> series (most recently Fallout 76<\/a>), given the notable similarities it shares with Mutant<\/em>.<\/p>\n

\"MUTANT<\/a><\/p>\n

Therefore, upon viewing the trailer for Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden<\/strong> this spring, I was immediately captivated. While the initial trailer lacked gameplay footage, I remained optimistic that the final product would fulfill the promise of its cinematic presentation. Furthermore, a successful launch would be beneficial for the distributor, Funcom<\/strong>, particularly after the problematic release of Conan Exiles<\/strong><\/a> earlier in the year.<\/p>\n

https:\/\/youtu.be\/SRhR6n76dBc<\/p>\n

The game is a strategy title that, like the original Fallout<\/em> and Fallout 2<\/em>, employs an isometric perspective. However, Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden<\/em> allows for camera rotation, ensuring comprehensive environmental awareness. Combat is turn-based, emphasizing strategic pre-engagement positioning and utilizing the environment to your advantage. The graphics are exceptionally well-rendered, incorporating numerous Swedish cultural references, such as ambulances, police vehicles, and road signage. The environments exhibit meticulous design, complemented by capable voice acting and an evocative musical score.<\/p>\n

\"MUTANT<\/a><\/p>\n

Players control a trio of characters, each possessing unique abilities and gaining new mutations through experience. The game involves acquiring new weapons and protective gear throughout your journey in this reimagined Sweden. I found myself quickly engrossed, with the strategic elements being particularly appealing. This aspect was notably absent in Fallout 3<\/strong> upon its release. Moreover, the core mechanics of stealth and tactical positioning are reminiscent of another personal favorite, Commandos<\/a>, which operates on a similar strategic foundation.<\/p>\n

\"MUTANT<\/a><\/p>\n

What are the drawbacks? There are a few aspects that slightly detract from the overall experience. While the game’s scope is understandably smaller than that of titles like Fallout 76<\/em>, with its expansive open-world map, the environments can feel somewhat limited. Additionally, navigation between different “levels” can occasionally be confusing, sometimes leading to unintended backtracking. Selecting “Travel” initiates a loading sequence, and an incorrect selection necessitates retracing steps and enduring another loading screen. This is a minor inconvenience, but a noticeable one.<\/p>\n

\"MUTANT<\/a><\/p>\n

Another minor issue arises when a previously cleared area does not repopulate with enemies, and the player’s squad remains underpowered for engaging the next tier of adversaries. This creates a potential stalemate, forcing players to confront significantly stronger opponents, leading to predictable setbacks. However, overcoming these challenges results in a genuinely rewarding sense of accomplishment. Furthermore, while the developers, The Bearded Ladies based in Trollh\u00e4ttan, invested considerable effort in the impressive cinematic trailer, the in-game cutscenes are presented as drawn stills. This stylistic choice, presumably dictated by budgetary constraints, is noticeable.<\/p>\n

\"MUTANT<\/a><\/p>\n

In conclusion, I hold Mutant Year Zero: Road to Eden<\/em> in high regard, a sentiment reflected in my overall rating. It has been some time since a game has so thoroughly captivated my attention. The setting is compelling, the voice acting is commendable, and the strategic gameplay mechanics are a welcome return. Despite the aforementioned minor drawbacks, this title is highly recommended for strategy enthusiasts, role-playing game nostalgists, and anyone interested in experiencing the life of a mutated duck in a futuristic Gothenburg and Kung\u00e4lv.<\/p>\n